Global Ports Holding and Ocean Platform Marinas Awarded a 25-Year Concession for Sevilla Cruise Port
Global Ports Holding Limited (“GPH”), in partnership with Ocean Platform Marinas (“OPM”), has been awarded a 25-year concession agreement for the operation of Sevilla Cruise Port, the city’s cruise and megayacht terminal located between the Delicias and Tablada quays at the Port of Sevilla.
Over the next 25 years, GPH, the world’s largest cruise port operator and OPM, Spain’s leading managers of large-yacht marinas, whose majority shareholder is Ocean Capital Partners combine global cruise port leadership with deep marina know-how to position Sevilla as a key destination for both cruise vessels and large yachts.
GPH and OPM will invest €5 million in a new terminal in the Port Urban District and in upgrading services for each call, among other improvements. The goal is to attract higher value-added calls for both business lines, optimize all services associated with each call, enhance passenger care and experience, and strengthen the urban integration of the waterfront.
“Global leaders in the sector have joined forces to manage the cruise terminal in a clear commitment to the Port of Sevilla,” said Rafael Carmona, President of the Port Authority. Carmona highlighted the strong interest in the city’s potential as a top-tier tourism destination and stated: “Our aim is to jointly drive the development of the premium cruise and megayacht business under sustainability criteria, increasing the number of calls and consolidating a marina in the heart of the city.”
Mehmet Kutman, Chairman and CEO of Global Ports Holding, added:
“We are delighted to expand our presence in Spain with the Sevilla Cruise Terminal. Together with our local partner, OPM, we believe Sevilla offers exceptional potential for both cruise and megayacht operations, and we look forward to working closely with the Port Authority to unlock the full potential of this unique destination.”
José Luis Almazán, CEO of Ocean Capital Partners, stated:
“We aim to make Sevilla a benchmark for port-city integration—a home port where vessels can access top-tier services while enjoying a unique urban experience. To achieve this, we have the support of the Port Authority of Sevilla and Global Ports Holding as the ideal partner in terminal management and passenger services.”
New Terminal in the Port Urban District
The concession covers an area of 5,100 square meters, including the current cruise terminal at Delicias Wharf, adjacent esplanades, and the berthing line.
It also includes 1,548 square meters at Tablada Wharf for the new cruise terminal, which will be located in one of the port’s historic sheds within the Port Urban District. Once cruise operations move to Tablada, Delicias Wharf will strengthen its role as a dedicated marina for large yachts.
Throughout the different phases of the project, Global Ports and OPM Sevilla plans to invest over €5 million, primarily in developing the new terminal and improving services for cruise ships and megayachts. The investment program includes upgrades to berthing areas, passenger flow optimization, specialized support for large yachts, and technical facilities for wintering and afloat repairs.
The investment will be executed over the next five years; in the short term, more than €700,000 will be allocated to improvements at the current cruise terminal and Delicias Wharf.
In addition to cruise operations, the concession includes specialized services for megayachts, such as concierge assistance, provisioning, and technical support, positioning Sevilla as an attractive homeport and wintering destination for operators.
A Unique Position in the Cruise Industry
The Port of Sevilla holds a unique position in the cruise industry. With its inland location accessible via the Guadalquivir Eurovía, this maritime inland port is ideal for turnaround and transit operations, particularly for cruises combining river and sea itineraries.
Currently, cruise passenger volumes are around 20,000 per year—a figure that Global Ports and OPM Sevilla expects to increase, supported by its strong industry position, solid relationships with cruise lines, and global business network.
About Global Ports Holding
Global Ports Holding (GPH) is the world’s largest cruise port operator, with a strong presence in the Caribbean, Mediterranean, and Asia-Pacific regions.
Founded in 2004 as an independent cruise port operator, GPH holds a unique position as the world’s leading cruise port brand. GPH operates 32 cruise ports in 19 countries, serving over 22 million cruise passengers annually through its portfolio of ports, including Barcelona, Las Palmas, Málaga, Valletta, Lisbon, Kusadasi, and Nassau.
More information: http://www.globalportsholding.com
About Ocean Capital Partners
Ocean Capital Partners is a Spanish company with an international outlook, specialising in the development, management and investment in port and maritime projects. With more than 50 years of experience, it supports its clients throughout the entire project life cycle, from conception to operation, providing consultancy, management and investment services with a long-term vision.
OCP puts forward innovative, long-term sustainable solutions designed to have a real and positive impact on the socio-economic realities of the communities in which it operates.
For more information: https://ocp.es/.
Port of Sevilla: The Sea in the Heart of Andalusia
The Port of Sevilla offers cruise passengers a unique experience. As a maritime inland port, it allows ships to dock directly in the city center, just steps from the historic district and close to iconic landmarks such as the Torre del Oro, the Royal Alcázar, and the Cathedral.
This strategic location makes it an ideal stop for high-end cruises on both Atlantic and Mediterranean itineraries.
Sailing along the Guadalquivir to Sevilla and docking in the heart of the city is an unforgettable experience. Watch the journey to Delicias Wharf here: https://youtu.be/uBIp35An9DA
